So after teaching fitness classes for decades, Mary Anne Cappellino of Clarence Center tapped her health and fitness ideas to write a children’s book titled “The Most Clever Frog.”

She said she wrote the book “to be able to deliver a message to kids, parents, teachers and pediatricians in a very fun way to address an important problem. Childhood obesity has tripled over the last 30 years.”

Children spend a lot of time sitting these days, she added.

The main character in the book is a frog named Eeek (which stands for Enlighten, Empower, Energize Kids) who is faced with a choice to be active or inactive. He learns that “you just can’t sit if you want to be fit.”

Cappellino said the story is aimed at health and fitness for 3- to 7-year-olds, which involves more than just the kids themselves.

Her team approach to get them moving includes visits to area schools, including Heim Middle School, where she shares her healthy message with students.

Buffalo Public Schools purchased the book for the preschool program, and area pediatricians’ offices, including Williamsville Pediatrics, are using it in their practices.

“One of the best gifts we can give our children is a healthy lifestyle,” said nurse practitioner Kelly Naab. “It is important to lead by example, making healthy living a family affair.”

“In addition to visiting schools and selling the book on the website, I have been most excited about the opportunity to spread the message in different ways,” Cappellino said. “We did performances at the Boulevard Mall and at a local kids run.

“It’s never too soon to teach these lessons to kids,” she said.

When parents take a step in the right direction, they serve as role models.

“I think what parents need to focus on is both personal wellness and personal leadership,” she said. “By strengthening a parent’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle, they will be ambassadors and role models for their families.”

The author is hoping this is the first in a series of books to encourage healthy, active families. She has tips to make fitness fun at www.eeekthefrog.com, where the book is also sold.

“It’s a really great way to shed light on exercise for children and do it in a way that is fun for them,” said Janelle Peterman, who shares the book with her 5-year-old daughter Ryley.

“We always make it about fun. It’s never about losing weight or trying to look a certain way. It’s about being healthy and fit and active,” she said.